The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me
The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me is a podcast dedicated to young soccer players and their families who dream of going pro. Hosted by soccer mom Megan Linke and her son Liam, this show brings in professional players, coaches, and industry experts to share their journeys and offer insights into what it takes to climb the ranks in the soccer world. Whether you're just starting or already on the path, we provide real stories, practical advice, and inspiration to help you reach the next level.
For more follow us along @liandmeinnyc on YouTube and Instagram
*Don't forget to give us a review below
The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me
Episode 9: Building the Dog Mentality with Coach Juan Ocampo
In this jam-packed episode of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Coach Juan Ocampo—founder of Pro Soccer Academy and mentor to some of the top youth players in the state. Known for cultivating what he calls the “dog mentality,” Coach Juan shares the real behind-the-scenes of what it takes to rise through the youth soccer system and develop not just talent, but true toughness.
🔥 In this episode, we cover:
- Juan’s powerful journey from playing in the streets of Colombia to a professional stint with the Cosmos
- Why the years from 8–12 are the most important in player development
- The difference between being good and being dominant—and how to train like a pro
- His no-fluff philosophy on physical and mental discipline (yes, there are pushups involved!)
- The #1 trait every top player has in common (hint: it's not just talent)
- Why the support system behind a young athlete is often what makes or breaks their career
- What “quiet dog” energy is… and how Liam shows up with it
- Advice for kids who want to go pro and for parents who want to support them without hovering
Whether you're a parent, coach, or youth athlete, this episode is packed with game-changing insight that will challenge, inspire, and level you up.
🎧 Tune in now and hear how Coach Juan is helping shape the next generation of pros—one disciplined rep at a time.
📲 Follow us here:
🔹Ig @coachjuan123
🔹 Megan linke : @liandmeinnyc
🔹Liam: @Liamlinke93
Follow on YouTube:YouTube: @liandmeinNYC
ICoach Juan OCampo
Listen on Apple, Spotify & all major platforms.
🎧 Listen now to Episode 9 of The Soccer Ladder — streaming wherever you get your podcasts.